Arsenal and Tottenham Compete for Eberechi Eze

Arsenal have officially entered the race to sign Crystal Palace's attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze, who is also a top target for their North London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur. According to sources close to BBC Sport, Arsenal is prepared to offer around £60 million for the England international.

Transfer Talks Heat Up

Talks between Tottenham and Crystal Palace have intensified over the past few days, with multiple sources indicating that negotiations are progressing positively. However, Arsenal's sudden interest has added a new layer of complexity to the transfer saga.

Injury Concerns Prompt Arsenal's Move

Arsenal's pursuit of Eze is partly driven by concerns over a knee injury sustained by forward Kai Havertz. Eze, 27, would provide manager Mikel Arteta with a versatile and dynamic option in the attacking third.

Crystal Palace's Stance

Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed that Eze will start in Thursday's UEFA Conference League play-off tie against Fredrikstad. Glasner emphasized that Eze remains "committed to the team" despite the ongoing transfer speculation.

Eze's Preference

Sources have revealed that Eze is keen on joining Arsenal before the transfer window closes on September 1st. The England international had a goal controversially ruled out in Palace's Premier League opener against Chelsea last Sunday.

Contract Details

Eze's contract with Crystal Palace includes an expired release clause initially valued at £60 million, with an additional £8 million in add-ons. Since joining from Queens Park Rangers in 2020 for £19.5 million, Eze has been a pivotal player for the Eagles, contributing 14 goals across all competitions last season.

Impact on Crystal Palace

Eze's contributions were crucial in Crystal Palace's 1-0 FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. His current deal runs until the summer of 2027, but the allure of joining a top Premier League club may prove too strong to resist.

What's Next?

As the transfer window deadline approaches, all eyes will be on whether Arsenal or Tottenham can secure the signature of one of the Premier League's most exciting talents. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.